Vancouver Trying To Develop Koffie

The Vancouver Whitecaps believe they’re sitting on a gold mine with Gershon Koffie.

However, in order for most fans to be convinced, the squad has to develop his offense more.

The 20-year-old Ghanaian midfielder has already impressed with his defense. The coaches love his natural instincts and his wiry, speedy build at 5’11” and 155 pounds. But they believe he can develop into more of an offensive threat.

Koffie has certainly shown flashes. He scored a big goal in a quarter-final playoff game against Portland last season.

Last week, he dazzled with a beautiful pass to Eric Hassli that almost set up a goal.

Caps coach Tom Soehn liked what he saw on that play and said it reminded him of the first time he saw Koffie as a teenager.

Vancouver Whitecaps Spotlight On Gershon Koffie

“You could see a lot of athletic qualities but his soccer brain was something special,” he said.

“I don’t think we see enough of the offensive qualities that I saw when I scouted him. He can supply some offense and I’m constantly pushing him to bring that aspect of his game out.”

I’m thrilled to see Vancouver trying to develop Koffie into a more offensive player.

It’s very rare for MLS teams to get elite prospects at a young age, as they usually head overseas.

The idea that the Caps could build around a special talent at midfield who is just 20 years old should be music to their supporters’ ears.